New scheme for families of children with additional needs

Families of children with additional needs are encouraged to join an exciting new scheme from Borough of Poole. Add-On offers members a range of benefits including a valuable discount card – the MAX card - with savings on activities and attractions across the UK.

Children do not need to be registered as disabled to join Add-On. Add-On is for all children and young people who have additional needs - these may be relatively minor or life altering; short term, long term or ongoing.

Families joining Add-On will automatically receive a MAX card and can start enjoying discounted days out locally and nationally at over 800 attractions including theme parks, castles, zoos, bowling alleys and more.

Families will also receive the termly Add-On newsletter and become an automatic member of Poole Parent Forum, PAX (Parents and Carers Are Experts). PAX is a parent-led group which helps influence and improve services for families of children with additional needs. If you have time to spare you can get involved in the forum, or simply choose to be kept up-to-date with the latest news.

Nikki Jacques, Vice Chair of PAX and mum to three children, one who has been diagnosed with autism, said: “The Add-On project, delivered by Poole Family Information Service is a fantastic initiative that is going to assist parents in practical ways, offering news, discounted days out and access to professionals. Like many parents I experience daily challenges, frustrations and anxiety when trying to navigate through the local services and support available. The Add-On project aims to make life a little easier for parents and I would encourage anyone who has a child with SEND or additional needs to register.”

Vicky Wales, Head of Children, Young People and Learning, Borough of Poole, said: “We’re very pleased to be able to offer the benefits of the Add-On service to local families of children with additional needs, and hope to see many of them signing up to the scheme over the coming weeks.”

Parents can sign up to Add-On online, or visit the Poole Family Information Service Welcome Desk above Poole Central Library in the Dolphin Centre.